War

Edwin Starr

About War

"War" is a counterculture era soul song written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for the Motown label in 1969. Whitfield first produced the song – an obvious anti-Vietnam War statement – with The Temptations as the original vocalists. After Motown began receiving repeated requests to release "War" as a single, Whitfield re-recorded the song with Edwin Starr as the vocalist, with the label deciding to withhold the Temptations' version from single release so as not to alienate their more conservative fans. Starr's version of "War" was a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970, and is not only the most successful and well-known record of his career, but it is also one of the most popular protest songs ever recorded. It was one of 161 songs on the no-play list issued by Clear Channel following the events of September 11, 2001. 


Year:
2001
3:21
38 
#1

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War, huh, yeah
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
War, huh, yeah
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
Say it again, why'all

War, huh, good god
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing, listen to me

Oh, war, I despise
'Cause it means destruction of innocent lives

War means tears to thousands of mothers eyes
When their sons go to fight
And lose their lives

I said, war, huh good god, why'all
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing say it again

War, whoa, lord
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing, listen to me

(War)  it ain't nothing but a heart-breaker
(War)  friend only to the undertaker
Oh, war it's an enemy to all mankind
The point of war blows my mind
War has caused unrest
Within the younger generation
Induction then destruction
Who wants to die, ah, war-huh, good god why'all
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing
Say it, say it, say it
War, huh
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing listen to me

(War) it ain't nothing but a heart breaker
(War) it's got one friend that's the undertaker
Oh, war, has shattered many a young mans dreams
Made him disabled, bitter and mean
Life is much to short and precious
To spend fighting wars these days
War can't give life
It can only take it away

Oh, war, huh good god why'all
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing say it again

(War) whoa, lord
What is it good for
Absolutely nothing listen to me

(War) it ain't nothing but a heart breaker
(War) friend only to the undertaker
Peace, love and understanding
Tell me, is there no place for them today
They say we must fight to keep our freedom
But lord knows there's got to be a better way

Oh, war, huh good god why'all
What is it good for you tell me
Say it, say it, say it, say it

(War) huh good god why'all
What is it good for
Stand up and shout it nothing

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Edwin Starr

Edwin Starr (January 21, 1942 – April 2, 2003) was an American soul music singer. Starr is most famous for his Norman Whitfield produced Motown singles of the 1970s, most notably the number one hit "War". more »

1 fan

Written by: Norman Whitfield, Barrett Strong

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Song Origin
"War" is a song produced by the Motown label, originally written by Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield for The Temptations.
Initial Release
The first version of "War" was recorded by The Temptations in 1970 as part of their "Psychedelic Shack" album.
Second Version
Edwin Starr later recorded the song in that same year, and it became one of his most successful singles.
Original Lyrics
The song's lyrics, penned by Strong and Whitfield, speak directly about the Vietnam war – protesting against it and highlighting its senselessness.
Chart Position
Edwin Starr's version hit number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1970, providing a soundtrack to the anti-Vietnam war sentiment of the era.
Sociopolitical Impact
"War" is widely noted for its overt sociopolitical commentary, something that was not common for Motown records. It's one of the few songs from the Motown catalog known for political activism.
Edwin Starr's Version
Starr's rendition of "War" was more intense than the original Temptations' version. The emotional performance made the song a standout during protests and demonstrations against the Vietnam war.
Grammy Nomination
The song was nominated for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male at the 13th Annual Grammy Awards in 1971.
Notable Covers
Bruce Springsteen has often covered "War" during his live performances, which further helped popularize the song.
Song Legacy
"War" is widely recognized as one of the most powerful protest songs ever recorded, and remains relevant in popular culture today.
Influence
This song has been sampled by various artists throughout the years, including Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and The Fall Out Bo
Addressing Controversy
The controversial subject matter of "War" made some Motown executives reluctant to release it as a single initially.
Impact on Starr's Career
"War" was a turning point in Edwin Starr's career, as it moved his repertoire away from romantic ballads towards more politically-charged material.
Enduring Appeal
Even half a century after its initial release, "War" continues to be played on radio and used in movies, testifying to its enduring appeal and timeless message.
Legacy of Writers
The writing team of Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield produced many other iconic songs for the Motown label, but "War" remains one of their most incendiary and enduring contributions.

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    War

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1970

    Billboard #1


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